Religious leaders urged to champion voter education and peace ahead of elections

Author: Michael Daniel | Published: 1 hour ago

Representatives from faith-based organizations, the National Elections Commission, and JICA gather for a commemorative group photo during a workshop on civic and voter education in Juba on Friday, August 21, 2026. (Photo: Courtesy)

Religious leaders in South Sudan are being encouraged to utilize churches and mosques to disseminate accurate civic and voter education, promote peace, and foster responsible public participation ahead of upcoming democratic processes.

The call was made during a civic engagement workshop organized by the National Elections Commission (NEC) in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) on Friday in Juba.

Approximately 50 representatives from the South Sudan Islamic Council and the South Sudan Council of Churches participated in the event, which focused on enhancing public understanding of electoral mechanisms. Discussions centered on the structure and administrative responsibilities of the NEC, progress on election readiness, and technical and operational considerations.

Participants reviewed comprehensive civic and voter education frameworks, including materials on human rights, governance, youth engagement, and peacebuilding. A specialized session explored how faith-based institutions can directly support the electoral framework and maintain social cohesion by encouraging citizens to exercise their civic duties peacefully.

The participation of the South Sudan Islamic Council followed an official request from the NEC to nominate representatives for civic engagement initiatives under the JICA-supported voter education program.

The workshop concluded with a joint commitment to expand future cooperation between the electoral management body and religious institutions, aiming to ensure broad, inclusive civic participation across South Sudan.